••Civil society slams police for “blatant disrespect” in official communication to the revered Emir of Kano.
By Mohammed Suleiman, Kano.
A coalition of concerned Kano civil society groups (CCKCSG) has fiercely criticized the Nigeria Police Force for addressing the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, as “Alhaji Sanusi” in official correspondence. The group, at a press conference in Kano on Wednesday, demanded an immediate public apology for what they termed a “deliberate act of disrespect” that undermines Kano’s cultural identity.
CCKCSG spokesperson, Nura Ali, stated that referring to the Emir by “Alhaji Sanusi” was not a mere oversight but a calculated affront to the Emirate and the cultural heritage of northern Nigeria. “Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II… is the custodian of our traditions and a revered leader whose title carries the weight of history,” Ali asserted. “To strip him of this title in official correspondence is to undermine the dignity of the Kano Emirate.”
The group called on the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission to ensure the police maintain neutrality in the ongoing Kano Emirate tussle. They urged the police to resist political pressures and engage traditional leaders with due respect, recognizing their role in maintaining peace.
CCKCSG also expressed alarm over alleged federal interference in the Emirate matter, citing “glowing and incendiary statements from opposition figures” and the deployment of military personnel, which they believe fuels perceptions of bias.
The coalition emphasized the need for dialogue and reconciliation, warning that the Emirate tussle has already caused significant unrest and economic damage. They vowed to continue monitoring the situation and mobilize further action if the police fail to issue the demanded apology and demonstrate due respect for the Emir.
